Shrimp Ceviche

Our family discovered this Shrimp Ceviche during the height of summer and our boys were hosting a cousin from Detroit at our remote lake cottage where they frolicked in the lake during the day and toasted marshmallows around the bonfire every night.

fresh shrimp ceviche with citrus and vegetables

That was one of my best weeks of the year and this easy ceviche quickly became one of my favorite seafood recipes and if you love fresh flavors try our Italian Herb Cheese Bread for a perfect pairing.

I will never forget the first time I made this and the look on the kids’ faces when they tasted it and read on and as I show you how to make this unforgettable family dish.

Ingredients

ingredients for shrimp ceviche

Here is what I use for this recipe and you can adjust nuts or spices based on preference:

  • raw shrimp peeled and deveined: Main protein that cures in citrus juices.
  • fresh lime juice: Acidic liquid that cooks and brightens shrimp.
  • fresh lemon juice: Adds extra tang and balances flavor.
  • red onion finely chopped: Provides sharp crunch and aroma.
  • tomatoes diced: Adds juicy texture and freshness.
  • cucumber diced: Gives crisp cooling contrast.
  • jalapeno finely chopped: Adds mild heat and spice.
  • fresh cilantro chopped: Herbal element for brightness.
  • salt: Enhances overall flavor.
  • black pepper: Adds subtle warmth.

Tools You’ll Need

  • mixing bowl: Used to combine and marinate ingredients.

Instructions

Step 1: Chop the shrimp into bite pieces

chopped raw shrimp pieces

I start by cutting the shrimp into small uneven chunks and the pieces vary slightly in size and this creates a natural texture and allows the citrus to reach every part of the shrimp. The shrimp now looks raw and slightly glossy and the pieces are loosely scattered rather than perfectly aligned and this gives a realistic homemade look.

Tip: Cut shrimp into similar sizes for even curing.

Step 2: Pour citrus juices over shrimp

shrimp in citrus juice

I pour lime juice and lemon juice directly over the shrimp and the liquid partially covers the pieces and starts interacting with the surface and this begins the curing process. The shrimp shifts slightly as the liquid spreads and the color starts to look slightly opaque in spots and this is the first visual change from raw.

Tip: Make sure shrimp is mostly submerged in juice.

Step 3: Add chopped vegetables and herbs

shrimp with vegetables

I scatter diced tomatoes onions cucumber jalapeno and cilantro over the shrimp and the ingredients fall unevenly and sit on top and around the shrimp pieces. The colors now become with reds greens and whites and the mixture looks more complex and layered rather than just shrimp and liquid.

Tip: Use fresh vegetables for best flavor.

Step 4: Let the mixture marinate and cure

marinated shrimp ceviche

I let the mixture rest and the shrimp gradually turns more opaque and slightly firm and the juices absorb into the vegetables and everything settles together. The texture changes as the shrimp looks cooked by citrus and the liquid appears slightly cloudy and this shows the transformation clearly.

Tip: Chill for at least 30 minutes for best texture.

Step 5: Toss and serve the ceviche

finished shrimp ceviche

I gently mix everything together so the shrimp and vegetables are evenly combined and the pieces shift and redistribute across the bowl and the juices coat everything lightly. The final dish looks fresh and slightly glossy with uneven textures and natural color variation and it is ready to serve.

Tip: Serve immediately for freshest taste.

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh shrimp for best flavor
  • Adjust citrus level to taste
  • Let it chill for better texture
  • Serve chilled for freshness

Storage Instructions

Store ceviche in the refrigerator in a sealed container and keep it chilled at all times and consume within one day for best freshness. Over time the shrimp can become overly firm and the vegetables may release extra liquid so it is best enjoyed soon after preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cooked shrimp?

Yes but traditional ceviche uses raw shrimp cured in citrus.

How long should ceviche marinate?

Usually 30 to 60 minutes until shrimp turns opaque.

Can I make ceviche ahead of time?

It is best eaten fresh but can be stored for a few hours.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Shrimp Ceviche soon!

It is a simple recipe that looks beautiful and tastes incredible and makes every occasion a little more special.

Do not forget to share your results or save this recipe for later it is one worth keeping and pair it with Loaded Nachos Supreme or Soft Pretzel Bites.

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fresh shrimp ceviche with citrus and vegetables

Shrimp Ceviche


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  • Author: Lisa
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Shrimp Ceviche is an easy recipe packed with fresh flavors and bright citrus notes making it one of the best healthy ideas for a quick and simple dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep or holiday or potluck or brunch or party this refreshing seafood option delivers bold taste with minimal effort while staying light and satisfying for everyone at the table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb raw shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup tomatoes diced
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1 jalapeno finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper


Instructions

  1. I start by cutting the shrimp into small uneven chunks and the pieces vary slightly in size and this creates a natural texture and allows the citrus to reach every part of the shrimp. The shrimp now looks raw and slightly glossy and the pieces are loosely scattered rather than perfectly aligned and this gives a realistic homemade look.
  2. I pour lime juice and lemon juice directly over the shrimp and the liquid partially covers the pieces and starts interacting with the surface and this begins the curing process. The shrimp shifts slightly as the liquid spreads and the color starts to look slightly opaque in spots and this is the first visual change from raw.
  3. I scatter diced tomatoes onions cucumber jalapeno and cilantro over the shrimp and the ingredients fall unevenly and sit on top and around the shrimp pieces. The colors now become with reds greens and whites and the mixture looks more complex and layered rather than just shrimp and liquid.
  4. I let the mixture rest and the shrimp gradually turns more opaque and slightly firm and the juices absorb into the vegetables and everything settles together. The texture changes as the shrimp looks cooked by citrus and the liquid appears slightly cloudy and this shows the transformation clearly.
  5. I gently mix everything together so the shrimp and vegetables are evenly combined and the pieces shift and redistribute across the bowl and the juices coat everything lightly. The final dish looks fresh and slightly glossy with uneven textures and natural color variation and it is ready to serve.

Notes

Pro Tips:

  • Use fresh shrimp for best flavor
  • Adjust citrus level to taste
  • Let it chill for better texture
  • Serve chilled for freshness

Storage: Store ceviche in the refrigerator in a sealed container and keep it chilled at all times and consume within one day for best freshness. Over time the shrimp can become overly firm and the vegetables may release extra liquid so it is best enjoyed soon after preparation.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minute
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Cuisine: Latin American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg

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